Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Proverbs - Chapter 19 - Verse 17

19:17
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

Meaning

This verse highlights the importance of showing compassion and generosity towards the less fortunate. It suggests that when we help those in need, we are in a way lending to the Lord himself. This concept reflects the idea that God is deeply concerned about the well-being of the poor and marginalized in society. By extending a helping hand to those in need, we are fulfilling a duty to God and demonstrating our faith in action.

The verse also emphasizes the idea of reciprocity in giving. It suggests that when we give to the poor, God will repay us in kind. This is not to say that we should help others with the expectation of receiving material wealth in return, but rather that our acts of kindness and charity do not go unnoticed by God. The verse serves as a reminder that our actions have spiritual significance and that God will reward us for our compassion and generosity.

Overall, this verse encourages believers to be mindful of the needs of others and to act with kindness and generosity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of showing love and compassion towards those who are less fortunate, knowing that our actions are ultimately serving the Lord himself.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again,' it is crucial to understand the significance of helping those in need. The act of showing compassion and generosity towards the less fortunate is seen as an act of kindness towards God Himself. By lending a helping hand to the poor, individuals are essentially lending to the Lord, who promises to repay them in return. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of caring for others and the belief that God rewards those who show mercy and generosity. Through word studies, we can dig deeper into the original language of the verse to uncover additional layers of meaning and context. By exploring the nuances of the words used, such as 'pity' and 'lendeth,' we gain a more profound understanding of the intent behind the message. Overall, this verse underscores the interconnectedness between compassion towards others and God's provision in our lives.

American Standard Version

He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto Jehovah, And his good deed will he pay him again.
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